Analyzing the Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol Abuse (Research Draft) Alcohol abuse differs from excessive drinking, despite several people using the two terms interchangeably. The concept of "excessive" drinking has largely been a social notion, and such social standards undergo changes. Numerous historical figures consumed alcohol in quantities proportional to those consumed by modern-day "alcoholics." Sailors of the Royal Navy were, in the seventeenth century, issued one gallon per day, of beer, as it was regarded healthier compared to water during long voyages. Pints of strong rum replaced this in the year 1655.

The rum ration provided to them on an everyday basis was well beyond that recommended at present on a weekly basis. However, combined with a mug of lemon juice daily, this was the recommended treatment for scurvy as well as a means to sterilize dirty water. The condition known as alcohol abuse is associated with a medical, and not social, meaning. Alcohol abuse refers to a drinking pattern impacting an individual's health, ability of working, and relationships. It is a key social problem in a majority of developed nations.

Countries' governments devote significant amounts of time towards attempts to change this drinking behavior, via policy, education, and legislation (Allsop, 2012; Gordis, 2001). Consequences of Alcohol Abuse Health: Those who drink alcohol in moderate quantities (actually quite large - about half a wine bottle per day) are actually considered healthier than those who don't drink at all. However, drinking more than this level begins damaging one's health and can lead to serious consequences.

Minor consequences of drinking above safe limits are sex drive loss and sleep disorders, while serious consequences include liver cirrhosis, several kinds of cancer, and heart disease (Manning, Smith & Mazerolle, 2013). Social: Alcohol abusers will more likely commit antisocial acts (like getting into brawls). They will also typically face problems in their relationships, since heavy drinking frequently results in arguments, loss of trust, and sexual problems (Manning et al., 2013). Career: Alcohol misuse can impact concentration and punctuality, thereby negatively affecting job prospects.

Alcohol abusers have a high likelihood of facilitating license loss, making many jobs inaccessible to them. If employers come to know of such abuse of substance, they may be dismissed from their job, particularly, if it involves machinery or requires precision (Manning et al., 2013). Counseling for Alcohol Abuse Numerous kinds of counseling approaches exist for alcohol abusers. While each has different methods and theories, they typically deal with common problems.

The "motivational interviewing" approach focuses on enhancing motivation, to alter behavior in those abusers who haven't decided to change as yet or are unsure of their ability to change behavior. Family therapy brings all members of the family to the process of treatment, as substance-related issues are considered to be linked to dysfunctional interactions and relationships among family members.

Cognitive behavioral and rational emotive therapies are aimed at challenging and changing negative, irrational thoughts considered to induce drug/alcohol consumption, as well as at changing and reducing drug/alcohol consumption behaviors. Skill training depends upon the assumption that substance abuse is a means to cope with stress and difficult situations and problems. Skill training is believed to offer healthier and more functional alternatives to manage stress. Relapse prevention entails developing strategies for facilitating continued abstinence from alcohol and drugs.

Drug therapies or Pharmacotherapy may be utilized in several ways for treating drug/alcohol dependence. At times, alcohol/drugs are consumed to suppress drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms, block certain drugs' effects, and stabilize symptoms (Ward, Snow & Aroni, 2010; Allsop, 2012). Empathic and supportive counseling represents a sound foundation. Therapeutic orientation holds less value compared to the therapist-patient relationship. This relationship forms the most important and active ingredient for effecting changes. Clear notes must be maintained on the case and client progress.

The approach adopted must incorporate definite evidence-based practices wherever appropriate (for instance, goal setting, motivational interviewing, relapse prevention, and problem solving). Client difficulties must be anticipated and strategies devised for helping clients manage difficulties prior to their surfacing. Also, one must make sure sound case management is linked to all clients; they must be able to avail themselves of other services and staff wherever appropriate. The broader picture ought to be considered. Clients need to be aided practically (with finances, food, housing etc.) prior to going over to deeper therapy.

Counselors must opt for routine clinical supervision and training for maintaining and improving their skills at counseling. Future of Alcohol Abuse The social issue of alcohol abuse has, of late, begun being considered as a population health problem that is to be highly prioritized. Thus, emphasis is shifting towards empowering people, families, and society to take care of their respective health and well-being. Interventions are now aimed at the reduction of heavy drinking -- particularly binge drinking -- thereby reducing other related problems.

A key action emphasis is on basic strategies of alcohol misuse prevention (Allsop, 2012). Over the long run, the goal is to increase an understanding of alcoholism's biology and apply this understanding for developing novel targeted medications for preventing.